Ammi majus is a charming cottage garden flower that brings clouds of delicate white blooms to summer borders and cutting gardens. Growing 36 to 48 inches tall with a refined, airy form, this heirloom reaches full flower in about 84 days from seed. Hardy across zones 2 through 11, it thrives in full sun and moderate moisture, making it accessible to gardeners across nearly every climate. The flower's intricate, lacy appearance comes from its membership in the Apiaceae family, the same clan that includes Queen Anne's Lace, and its summer blooms consistently attract pollinators to the garden.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
48in H x 18in W
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Moderate
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Ammi produces intricate, lacey white flower clusters that float on tall, slender stems, creating an ethereal effect in the garden from June through August. This heirloom variety germinates quickly (within 7 to 14 days) and reaches bloom in just 84 days, rewarding patient gardeners with extended color through successive plantings. Its pollinator magnetism and cut-flower qualities make it equally valuable in meadow gardens and vases, while its hardy range from zone 2 to zone 11 means it grows almost everywhere.
Ammi majus is primarily grown as an ornamental flower for cutting gardens and fresh arrangements. Its lacy white blooms add texture and lightness to bouquets and are valued for their long vase life. Gardeners also plant it throughout borders and meadow gardens where its airy form softens harder perennials and creates a naturalistic, romantic aesthetic.
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Sow seeds into deep pots 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Keep the soil at 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit until germination occurs, then move seedlings to a cooler spot at 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for sturdy growth. Avoid letting seedlings become root-bound in their containers, as they will struggle when transplanted into the garden.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after your last spring frost date. Space plants 1 inch apart in full sun.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last spring frost. For extended bloom throughout the summer, make two additional sowings at 2 to 3 week intervals. This succession planting strategy ensures continuous flowers rather than a single concentrated flush.
Cut flower stems in the early morning when blooms are fully open but still fresh. Remove lower foliage from the stem and place immediately in cool water. Ammi's delicate flowers last well in the vase, typically holding their appearance for a week or longer with regular water changes.
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